In a recent update to its content policy, Epic Games has made adjustments to the availability of Adults Only (AO) rated games on its platform, specifically those incorporating blockchain technology. While most video games rated by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) remain prohibited from the Epic Games Store, the new policy provides an exemption for blockchain games rated as AO, but only if the rating is directly linked to their utilization of controversial technology.
The introduction of this nuanced revision aims to strike a balance between imposing restrictions and recognizing instances where content may warrant special consideration. Previously, games featuring blockchain technology in concepts like non-fungible tokens (NFTs) faced restrictions due to the ESRB’s AO rating, which typically applies to games with extreme violence or sexual content.
Epic Games has been supportive of blockchain games on its platform for some time, including enabling the presence of NFTs in its storefront. This decision set them apart from other major players in the industry, like Valve, which had expressed opposition to this emerging technology. Despite facing scrutiny, Epic has stood by its commitment to innovation and user engagement.
As a demonstration of this commitment, the company recently re-listed two notable games, Gods Unchained and Striker Manager 3, after they had been temporarily removed due to receiving AO ratings from the ESRB. This adjustment reflects Epic’s responsiveness to industry dynamics and showcases a dynamic approach to content curation and platform policies.
The growth of blockchain gaming has been substantial, with a reported 2000% increase in activity in 2022 compared to the previous year. This growth has attracted over $2.5 billion in investments, as companies like Sky Mavis recognize the potential market for assets associated with blockchain-based games.
Overall, Epic Games’ revised policy on Adults Only rated games marks a significant step in accommodating the unique characteristics of blockchain technology within the gaming industry while upholding necessary restrictions on content.
FAQ:
Q: What is the recent update to Epic Games’ content policy?
A: Epic Games made adjustments to the availability of Adults Only (AO) rated games on its platform, specifically those incorporating blockchain technology.
Q: What does the new policy provide for blockchain games rated as AO?
A: The new policy provides an exemption for blockchain games rated as AO, but only if the rating is directly linked to their utilization of controversial technology.
Q: Why were games featuring blockchain technology previously restricted?
A: Games featuring blockchain technology faced restrictions due to the ESRB’s AO rating, which typically applies to games with extreme violence or sexual content.
Q: How has Epic Games been supportive of blockchain games?
A: Epic Games has enabled the presence of NFTs (non-fungible tokens) in its storefront and has listed notable games featuring blockchain technology on its platform.
Q: What does Epic Games’ adjustment in relisting AO-rated games showcase?
A: This adjustment reflects Epic’s responsiveness to industry dynamics and showcases a dynamic approach to content curation and platform policies.
Q: What has been the growth of blockchain gaming?
A: Blockchain gaming has seen a reported 2000% increase in activity in 2022 compared to the previous year.
Definitions:
- Adults Only (AO) rating: A rating given by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) to video games that contain content suitable only for adults, typically due to extreme violence or sexual content.
- Blockchain technology: A decentralized digital ledger technology that allows for secure and transparent transactions and records using cryptographic techniques.
- Non-fungible tokens (NFTs): Unique digital assets that are stored and traded on a blockchain.
Suggested related links:
- Epic Games
- Entertainment Software Rating Board
- Sky Mavis